Parasites in Cats: Types, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Parasites are a common problem in cats, affecting both indoor and outdoor felines. They can cause a range of health issues, from mild irritation to serious illnesses. Some parasites are even zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to humans.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about parasites in cats, including the different types, symptoms, treatment options, and how to prevent infestations.

Types of parasites in cats

Parasites in cats can be categorised into two main types:

• External parasites – Affect the skin, fur, and ears.
• Internal parasites – Live inside the body, typically in the intestines, heart, or lungs.

External parasites

External parasites live on a cat’s skin or in their fur. They can cause discomfort, allergic reactions, and transmit diseases.

Fleas

Fleas are one of the most common external parasites in cats. They are small, fast-moving insects that feed on blood and can quickly infest both pets and homes.

Symptoms of fleas:

• Excessive scratching or biting at the skin
• Hair loss or thinning fur
• Flea dirt, which looks like black specks that turn red when wet
• Red, irritated skin
• Anaemia in severe infestations, causing pale gums and weakness

Treatment for fleas:

• Flea spot-on treatments
• Oral flea tablets
• Flea collars
• Flea shampoos and sprays
• Treating the home by vacuuming, washing bedding, and using flea sprays

Ticks

Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that attach to a cat’s skin. They can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and babesiosis.

Symptoms of ticks:

• Visible ticks attached to the skin
• Localised swelling or irritation
• Excessive grooming or scratching

Treatment for ticks:

• Using a tick remover tool to detach them properly
• Applying vet-approved tick preventatives
• Regularly checking for ticks, especially after outdoor activities

Ear mites

Ear mites, or Otodectes cynotis, are tiny parasites that live inside a cat’s ear canal, causing irritation and infections.

Symptoms of ear mites:

• Excessive ear scratching
• Head shaking
• Dark, coffee ground-like debris in ears
• Redness or swelling of the ear canal
• Foul-smelling discharge

Treatment for ear mites:

• Prescription ear drops
• Cleaning the ears with a vet-approved solution
• Regular ear checks to prevent reinfestation

Lice

Lice are small, wingless insects that cause itching and discomfort in cats. They are less common than fleas but can affect neglected or ill cats.

Symptoms of lice:

• Scruffy, dry fur
• Excessive scratching
• Visible white lice eggs, also known as nits, on fur
• Hair loss in severe cases

Treatment for lice:

• Medicated shampoos or spot-on treatments
• Regular grooming and combing
• Cleaning the cat’s bedding and environment

Internal parasites

Internal parasites live inside the cat’s body, most commonly in the digestive tract, but they can also affect the heart and lungs.

Roundworms

Roundworms are one of the most common intestinal parasites in cats, particularly in kittens. They can be transmitted through infected faeces, soil, or from mother to kitten via milk.

Symptoms of roundworms:

• Bloated belly, especially in kittens
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Poor coat condition
• Weight loss despite normal appetite

Treatment for roundworms:

• Oral deworming medications
• Regular faecal testing for reoccurrence

Tapeworms

Tapeworms are long, segmented worms that attach to the intestinal lining. They are often transmitted when a cat ingests an infected flea.

Symptoms of tapeworms:

• Small white rice-like segments in faeces or around the anus
• Increased appetite without weight gain
• Occasional scooting, where the cat drags its rear on the floor

Treatment for tapeworms:

• Deworming medications
• Flea control to prevent reinfestation

Hookworms

Hookworms are tiny worms that attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood, potentially leading to anaemia.

Symptoms of hookworms:

• Dark, tarry stools
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Pale gums, which indicate anaemia

Treatment for hookworms:

• Oral dewormers prescribed by a vet
• Regular faecal tests to check for reinfection

Lungworms

Lungworms are parasites that affect the respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties.

Symptoms of lungworms:

• Coughing or wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Weight loss
• Lethargy

Treatment for lungworms:

• Prescription dewormers
• Supportive care for respiratory issues

Heartworms

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquito bites and can cause severe heart and lung disease. While rare in the UK, cases are increasing due to climate change and pet travel.

Symptoms of heartworms:

• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Collapse in severe cases

Treatment for heartworms:

• There is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats, so prevention is crucial
• Monthly heartworm preventatives can be given

How do cats get parasites?

Cats can contract parasites through various sources:

• Contact with infected animals, as fleas, ear mites, and lice spread easily between cats
• Ingesting contaminated food, water, or prey, as tapeworms and roundworms are often contracted from hunting or eating raw meat
• Exposure to infected faeces or soil, since many intestinal parasites spread through contaminated litter trays or outdoor environments
• Insect bites, particularly mosquito bites, which can transmit heartworms

Can humans catch parasites from cats?

Some parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can infect humans. These include:

• Roundworms, which can cause visceral or ocular larva migrans if ingested
• Hookworms, which can penetrate human skin, leading to cutaneous larva migrans
• Fleas, which can bite humans and cause allergic reactions
• Ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease to humans

Proper hygiene, including washing hands after handling cats and cleaning litter trays, helps reduce the risk of transmission.

Preventing parasites in cats

Prevention is the best way to protect your cat from parasites. Here’s how to keep them safe:

Regular parasite prevention

• Use monthly flea and tick treatments year-round
• Administer regular deworming treatments as recommended by your vet
• Consider heartworm prevention if your cat travels abroad

Maintain a clean environment

• Wash bedding regularly
• Clean and disinfect litter trays frequently
• Vacuum carpets and furniture to remove flea eggs and larvae

Control exposure to infected animals

• Keep cats indoors or supervise outdoor time to reduce exposure
• If adopting a new cat, quarantine and treat for parasites before introducing them to other pets

Feed a parasite-free diet

• Avoid feeding raw meat unless properly sourced and prepared
• Keep food and water bowls clean

When to see a vet

Seek veterinary care if your cat shows any signs of parasite infestation, including:

• Persistent scratching, biting, or hair loss
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Lethargy or pale gums

Early detection and treatment can prevent serious health complications.

Conclusion

Parasites are a common concern for cats, but with regular prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment, you can protect your feline friend from discomfort and illness. Whether your cat is an indoor pet or an outdoor explorer, keeping up with parasite control is essential for their well-being.

If you suspect your cat has parasites, consult your vet for the best treatment options. A proactive approach will help keep your cat healthy, happy, and parasite-free.